Suspended Chief Justice, Gertrude Araba Torkonoo,
The Progressive People’s Party (PPP) has declared its support for President John Dramani Mahama’s decision to suspend the Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Torkonoo, stating that the move aligns with constitutional provisions and due process.
In a press release issued on Monday, April 28, 2025, and signed by the party’s chairman, Nana Ofori Owusu, the PPP affirmed its belief that the President’s action was both lawful and procedurally sound, executed under the 1992 Constitution.
“The suspension, as executed by the President, was lawful and in full compliance with the due process of law as enshrined in our 1992 Constitution,” the statement read.
The PPP explained that the President’s decision followed a prima facie determination of misconduct, made in consultation with the Council of State, as required under Article 146 of the Constitution.
The party also confirmed that the Chief Justice had been allowed to respond to the allegations before the suspension was effected, which they described as evidence of the President’s adherence to the rule of law and human rights.
The statement also criticised the Ghana Bar Association (GBA) for its call to reverse the suspension, describing the GBA’s stance as “perplexing” and potentially damaging to democratic accountability.
“Their call for a ‘suspension of the CJ’s suspension’ is perplexing and could be interpreted as an attempt to suspend due process itself,” the PPP noted.
“The privileges, conditions of service, powers, and the honor bestowed upon the heads of the three arms of state necessitate that they are held to the highest standards of accountability,” the party emphasised.
The PPP referenced the 2018 removal of the Electoral Commission Chairperson and her deputies as precedent, stating that constitutional processes must be followed regardless of the position held by the individuals involved.
“In our defense of the Chief Justice, we must not lose sight of the essential requirements of accountability, due process, the rule of law, and absolute compliance with constitutional provisions.”
AM/KA
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